The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM5 takes a page out of the GM1’s book by putting a Four Thirds sensor in an incredibly compact interchangeable lens body with a Micro Four Thirds mount. Unlike the GM1, the GM5 skips the pop-up flash for a built-in 1,166K dot EVF. Other big differences between the two include the GM5’s 1080/60p video recording, additional external controls, as well as an accessory hotshoe.

Like the GM1, the GM5 offers a 16MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor and a 3-inch touch LCD. Features like built-in Wi-Fi and a magnesium alloy body remain unchanged. The GM5 makes changing settings a bit easier with a new click control dial and button layout, leading to a better overall handling experience. Autofocus has also been noticeably improved over the GM1, and video specs have been bumped up to 1080/60p movie recording.

Overall the GM5 proves that a tiny camera can be quite feature-rich. As with any small camera design, you ultimately sacrifice some level of ergonomics for portability. But if that does’t bother you, the GM5 is certainly worth your consideration.

If small size is a priority, the pint-sized Lumix GM5 can't be beat. It affords creativity and flexibility that you won't necessarily get with a fixed lens camera, and provides a Four Thirds sensor many times the size of those found in not-much-smaller compact cameras. Its built-in EVF and direct controls recommend it to enthusiasts, but its 16MP sensor struggles to compete with high-res APS-C chips in much of the (often cheaper) competition.